Outgoing School Official Could Get $181K Severance

ROCHESTER (AP) – The outgoing superintendent of Rochester Community Schools is leaving after 14 months, and could take $181,000 in severance with him.

Fred Clarke’s original four-year contract included $181,200 in annual salary, but no severance package.

But District spokeswoman Debra Hartman tells The Detroit News a new deal signed Sept. 5 nullifies that pact and includes severance of at least $94,391 in salary, plus another $86,543 if Clarke doesn’t find employment by Dec. 31.

Rochester school board president Jennifer Berwick says the district “wasn’t the right fit,” for Clarke and “he wanted to seek other employment.” She says the situation is unfortunate but “the board is committed to doing what’s best for the district.”

Clark was hired July 1, 2011 and officially resigned Monday. He couldn’t immediately be reached for comment.